Which of the following statements regarding autistic disorder and Asperger syndrome is true?

• A. Autistic disorder is generally considered less severe than Asperger syndrome in terms of social and communication impairments.
• B. Individuals with Asperger syndrome typically have no significant delays in language or cognitive development, unlike those with autistic disorder.
• C. Individuals with Asperger syndrome usually exhibit more pronounced repetitive behaviors than those with autistic disorder.
• D. Both autistic disorder and Asperger syndrome are characterized by significant intellectual disability.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the key characteristics of Autistic Disorder and Asperger Syndrome, focusing on social interaction, communication skills, language development, cognitive abilities, and repetitive behaviors.
2. Step 2: Recognize that Autistic Disorder often involves significant delays in language and cognitive development, whereas Asperger Syndrome typically does not show these delays.
3. Step 3: Compare the severity of social and communication impairments between the two, noting that Autistic Disorder is generally considered more severe in these areas than Asperger Syndrome.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the presence and intensity of repetitive behaviors in both conditions, understanding that while both exhibit such behaviors, the degree can vary and is not necessarily more pronounced in Asperger Syndrome.
5. Step 5: Consider intellectual disability, noting that significant intellectual disability is more commonly associated with Autistic Disorder, whereas individuals with Asperger Syndrome usually have average or above-average intelligence.